Toddler Activities: Scooping Marbles

When Twin Big Brothers run towards the playground, Mr Two Year old waddles at warp speed behind them.

When Twin Big Brothers decide to spontaneously declare war at the top of their voices in our tiny corridor, Mr Two Year raises his arms and adds his voice to their war cry – (he scrunches up his nose; drops his jaw; very Braveheart like in countenance).

When Twin Big Brothers are playing with a tray of rice, guess where Mr Two Year old can be found?

Materials:teaspoon or small measuring spoon
marbles
small shallow bowl (Mr Two Year old preferred our toy teapot)
large tray

Using a scoop is a fine motor skill that is easily incorporated into many types of daily play. It's great for using both hands together; and building up the strength and stability of hands, fingers, shoulders, elbows and wrists. When learning to scoop, begin with larger objects or less refined substances. To help Mr. Two Year Old refine his scooping skills, marbles were added to the tray.

Twin Big Brothers are playing with a tray of rice. Mr Two Year old is nearby, standing in a puddle of rice; the generous scraps which he has dropped onto the floor. More scooping play (and time) will fix that.

Tubs of rice are great for sensory play but these Quirky Mommas have some ideas that your children will love:

About Pauline

Pauline LessonsLearntJournal is all about life with kids. On Lessons Learnt Journal you'll find activities for children: play, maths games, handwriting, reading as well as parenting confessions. Pauline is a Christian, Wife, Mother of 4, Primary School Teacher. When not blogging, she may be found virtually hoarding on Pinterest, trying to decide which Instagram filter to apply, or compulsively refreshing her Facebook feed. Most days you'll find her chasing her kids and that much needed nap.

These activities are very similar to the Montessori philosophy. Parents pay big bucks to send their kids to these schools. Yes, it is supervised activities. You’ll actually have to spend time interacting with your kids. Its good for both of you. You won’t regret the time you spend watching them learn. They can be messy activities, I will just warn you now.